Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Several issues were raised when I met a group of residents recently.
I have now had answers from WC highways... "Ernie Please see comments below: Q. Part of the catches securing the wooden gates on Middle Lane where it crosses the HRR have been stolen(!) and the gates will not secure close. This has been raised by the parish council a couple of weeks ago I believe but nothing has been done. This must be a safety issue especially with the schools on holiday. A. This crossing is being reviewed by the Rights of Way warden. In the meantime I have asked the developer to replace the catches. Q. On the approach to the Wyke Road roundabout at the North end of the HRR, there are no triangular warning signs for the roundabout on either Wyke Road or Horse Road. A. There is no mandatory requirement for highway authorities to display warning signs for this purpose. Whilst this junction has been heavily modified, a roundabout has featured here for many years without the provision of warning of warning signs. The new roundabout features larger splitter islands, reflective / illuminated bollards and chevron signs and is sufficiently visible to approaching motorists without the need for advance warning signs. Q. A road name sign for St. Mary's Gardens (the first junction as you go along Horse Road from the HRR roundabout) was knocked down by the grass cutters a year ago! It has probably never been reported but it is causing visitors to confuse the road with St. Mary's Close. Can it be replaced please. A. Historically (until 2009) the number of street signs and street furniture on the highway continued to increase. Currently when signs and street furniture are damaged only statutory, safety and works deemed a priority are undertaken. In 2017 the service is endeavouring to reprioritise funding to allow a programme of works for discretionary activities. This would include barrier, street name plates and certain signage requirements. Until that time any requests for these works will be recorded to be reviewed in 2017 for scheduling. Q. Finally, I was asked why, with the exception of the sign as you approach from Staverton, there are no warning signs of the weight limit through the village on the advance signs as vehicles approach both roundabouts. A. The Directional Signs for Elizabeth Way were designed and approved long before construction of the relief road began. The extent of the new weight limit was not known at this time and therefore reference to the limit was not included. Regards, Highway Development Control Manager, Sustainable Transport, Wiltshire Council." I have asked whether retrospective additions can be made to the direction signs re the weight limit.